Across America, we have heard of an alarming wave of recent incidents of prejudice against groups and individuals because of their race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or other differences, including political beliefs.

In the past week, several members of our community also have reported that they have experienced disturbing and disrespectful incidents here at UCSF.

Let me be clear: Discrimination and harassment have no place at UCSF. My leadership team and I strongly denounce these actions, as they go against our core mission of advancing the health and wellbeing of humanity and our PRIDE values of professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence.

Please take a few minutes to watch my short video message. We all have an important role to play in fostering a culture of diversity, inclusion and respect. I urge every member of our community to ensure that we are each actively fulfilling that role.

The results of Tuesday’s election have been met with a range of emotions in our community.

Over the last several days, we—along with the leadership team of the Differences Matter initiative and similar programs across the entire campus—have been hearing from immigrant (including DACA), Muslim, LGBT, and minority learners, as well as faculty, staff and patients. The common theme being expressed is that many people are feeling personally vulnerable because of the rhetoric voiced during the election season.

It is also clear that the process leading up to the election, and the results of the election, have revealed more clearly than ever deep divisions within our country. It is critical that we come together to bridge these gaps in order to function as a healthy society.

To all who are feeling concerned or at risk, we are here for you and intend to fully support you. Our commitment to developing and sustaining a culture of equity and inclusion remains steadfast and is reflected in our UCSF PRIDE values.

We are fortunate to be members of an institution that is a beacon of hope for all. Our patients come to us with hope that we can alleviate their suffering. Our students, postdocs, residents and fellows come here with hope that we will help them become outstanding contributors to the world of biomedical science and health care. Our faculty and staff come here with hope that they will be a part of something bigger than their own individual success: the chance to use their creative talents to make...

Please see the message below from President Janet Napolitano, myself and the other Chancellors of the University of California regarding the Presidential election results. We are sharing this with the UCSF community on behalf of President Napolitano.

President Janet Napolitano and the Chancellors of the University of California today (November 9) issued the following statement:

In light of yesterday's election results, we know there is understandable consternation and uncertainty among members of the University of California community. The University of California is proud of being a diverse and welcoming place for students, faculty, and staff with a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Diversity is central to our mission. We remain absolutely committed to supporting all members of our community and adhering to UC’s Principles Against Intolerance. As the Principles make clear, the University “strives to foster an environment in which all are included” and “all are given an equal opportunity to learn and explore.” The University of California will continue to pursue and protect these principles now and in the future, and urges our students, faculty, staff, and all others associated with the University to do so as well.

We are proud of what the University of California stands for and hope to convey that positive message to others in our state and nation.